Bangladesh police lob stun grenades to disperse march over excessive use of force

Bangladesh police use force to disperse protesters, sparking international calls for UN investigation into violence.

Police in Bangladesh fired tear gas and stun grenades to disperse people who were demonstrating on July 31 against the excessive use of force by authorities during protests earlier in July that left at least 150 dead.

The unrest is the biggest test facing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, 76, since she won a fourth term in January elections boycotted by the main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which were also marred by deadly protests.

Ms. Hasina on July 31 sought cooperation from the United Nations and other international organisations to conduct a proper investigation into the recent nationwide violence during the anti-quota agitation to punish the real culprits involved in the attacks.

“We’re seeking UN and other international organisations’ cooperation for a fair and proper investigation into the matter,” Hasina said, adding that the people involved in the violence must be brought to justice.

“Because I know I have no negligence to this end,” she was quoted as saying by the Dhaka Tribune newspaper.

Speaking at an event, she came down heavily on those who were involved in damaging public properties alongside killing many people and thus tarnishing the country’s image.

Police said they used force on July 31 when people in the northeastern district of Sylhet broke through barricades to march towards for the courts.